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House Resources Committee to Mull Damage Limits for Canal Owners

Idaho lawmakers are considering a measure that could limit liability when damages are caused from water discharges into ditches or canals.

The bill would protect canal owners who oversee tens of thousands of miles of Idaho's water systems. Specifically, canal owners would be protected when damages result from the discharge of water into a canal by a third party without permission or "any act of God."

Public testimony on the measure, House Bill 398, will be heard Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., in front of the House Resources and Conservation Committee.

In Wednesday's BW, we examine how Idaho and the nation have been aggressively limiting damages in countless civil actions. We'll also see how the infamous McDonald's "hot coffee" lawsuit is about to brew up some debate in the Treasure Valley in the coming weeks.